NHA Phlebotomy Certification Practice Exam

What is the priority when collecting blood for a test that requires a fast?

1. Determine the patient’s last meal

2. Verify the patient’s identity

3. Document the time of collection

4. Ensure proper storage conditions for the sample

The correct answer is: Determine the patient’s last meal

When collecting blood for a test that requires fasting, determining the patient’s last meal is of utmost importance. Fasting ensures that the levels of certain substances in the blood are not influenced by recent food intake, which can lead to inaccurate test results. Knowing the timing of the last meal helps to confirm that the patient has adhered to the fasting requirement, which is essential for the validity of tests such as glucose or lipid panels. While verifying the patient’s identity, documenting the time of collection, and ensuring proper storage conditions are all critical components of the blood collection process, they do not directly address the specific requirement of fasting. Without confirming that the patient has accurately fasted, the results of the blood test may be compromised, making it a priority in this context.